The Arizona Cardinals have named Carson Beck as their starting quarterback for the Week 10 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. The decision places the rookie in the spotlight during a season that has become notable for its reliance on unheralded young signal callers. With the Cardinals currently holding a 3-6 record, the team is looking to spark a turnaround by handing the reins to Beck.
Beck is set to become the third rookie quarterback drafted outside the first two rounds to start a game in the 2026 NFL season. The only other players to achieve this feat this year were undrafted rookies Jalon Daniels of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Joe Fagnano of the Baltimore Ravens. According to the source, such a occurrence has not happened since 1987, highlighting the unique nature of the current landscape for young quarterbacks.
Head coach Mike LaFleur expressed confidence in Beck’s readiness despite the early stage of his career. LaFleur noted that while Sunday games provide the final test, Beck’s consistent work ethic from organized team activities through training camp has been impressive. The coach also pointed to Beck’s performance in the first half of a recent game, along with a specific second-half possession, as indicators that the rookie is prepared to take on the role.
Beck’s preseason performance in the Hall of Fame game offers a glimpse into his potential capabilities. In that contest against the Carolina Panthers, Beck completed 15 of his 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown. This showing provided the coaching staff with valuable data as they evaluated his readiness for the regular season.
The upcoming game against the Rams presents a significant challenge for the rookie. Beck will become the fifth quarterback in NFL history to make his first career start against a pair of pass rushers who have each recorded over 100 sacks in their careers. He will face Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett, two of the league's most dominant defensive players.
LaFleur adopted a light-hearted approach to the daunting matchup, joking about the opposing defense’s talent. He emphasized that his expectations for Beck are simple: play his game one play at a time and enjoy the experience with his teammates. The coach encouraged Beck to let it rip and have fun rather than being overwhelmed by the pressure.
The Cardinals' receiving corps is currently depleted, adding another layer of difficulty to Beck’s debut. Michael Wilson and Kendrick Bourne are out for the season due to injuries to their neck and tibia, respectively. Additionally, Marvin Harrison Jr. has been traded to the Houston Texans. This leaves a group of less experienced players to support the rookie quarterback.
The projected starting receivers for the Cardinals include fifth-round rookie Reggie Virgil, undrafted veteran Simi Fehoko, and Pro Bowl return man Devin Duvernay. While these players offer depth, the team lacks the established stars who were previously part of the receiving unit.
A major asset for Beck is the presence of tight end Trey McBride, who was a first-team All-Pro in 2025. McBride leads the NFL with 73 receptions through Week 9 and has recorded at least seven catches in 11 consecutive games. Beck is familiar with this dynamic, having spent several years working with tight end Brock Bowers during his time at the University of Georgia.
As the Cardinals prepare for their game against the Rams, all eyes will be on how Beck handles the pressure of his first start. The combination of a formidable defensive front and a reshuffled receiving group makes this a critical moment for the young quarterback and the team's season.
